This month, something special happened at Novikov Beverly Hills.
What started as an idea between friends became the inaugural All-Stars for Change, bringing supporters and advocates together for a night centered on ASAS students.
Hosted by Novikov Beverly Hills and Hard Cut Vodka, the evening was intimate, energetic, and full of personality, with 100% of proceeds supporting After-School All-Stars.
One of the night’s most moving moments came from Laura Ochoa, a former ASAS Los Angeles Program Coordinator, who shared the story of Selma, a student she mentored as she prepared to interview for ASAS’s Youth Advisory Board. With encouragement and mentorship, Selmafound her confidence and earned her place as a youth advocate. Her story was a powerful reminder of what can happen when a young person has someone in their corner.
“When you invest in after-school programs, you are investing in opportunity. You are investing in young people who discover their potential, find their voice, and imagine a different future.”—Laura Ochoa
Dolph Lundgren also shared why ASAS is personal to him, reflecting on his longtime friendship with ASAS Founder Arnold Schwarzenegger and what drew him to our organization.
The night brought plenty of energy, from Dolph behind the bar serving Hard Cut Vodka cocktails to live jazz, Novikov’s Italian-Mediterranean cuisine, and an auction featuring everything from the chance to train with Dolph to sneakers signed by Kobe Bryant.
Matt Iseman, longtime ASAS friend and American Ninja Warrior host, emceed the evening, while Mariia Ostapenko of Novikov Beverly Hills spoke about the partnership that brought it all together.
What made the night memorable were the people in the room and the genuine enthusiasm they brought with them. We’re incredibly grateful to Novikov Beverly Hills, Hard Cut Vodka, and everyone who joined usfor helping launch this new partnership and rallying around ASAS students.
The first All-Stars for Change is in the books. We can’t wait to see where it goes from here.